Garbage Disposal Not So Disposing? Here’s What to Do

Common Causes of Disposal Problems

Garbage disposals are tough, but they are not built to handle everything. Many problems come from misuse. Here are a few common causes:

• Putting grease or oil down the drain
• Allowing fibrous foods like celery or corn husks to go in
• Dropping utensils or hard objects into the unit by mistake
• Overloading the disposal with too much food at once
• Failing to run enough cold water while it is grinding

These habits can shorten the life of the unit. A professional plumber will often see the same issues again and again when they are called to repair or replace a disposal.

DIY Fixes You Can Try First

Before you rush to replace the disposal, you can try a few safe fixes:

• Press the reset button – Many disposals have a small button underneath. If the unit overheated, this might bring it back to life.
• Check for jams – Always turn off the power first. Use a hex wrench or wooden spoon handle to dislodge stuck items carefully.
• Clean the disposal – Ice cubes, baking soda, and vinegar can help clear out residue and odors.
• Flush with water – Run plenty of cold water during and after each use to keep things moving smoothly.

If these steps do not solve the problem, then calling a plumbing service is the next step.

When to Call a Plumber

There comes a point when do-it-yourself solutions are not enough. Here is when you should reach out to a professional:

• The unit trips the breaker repeatedly
• You see leaks that will not stop
• The blades are not spinning at all
• You are not comfortable handling electrical parts

At this stage, a plumber can inspect your system and let you know if repair or full garbage disposal replacement makes sense. Many homeowners trust High Speed Plumbing for this kind of work because they can identify the root cause quickly.

Repair vs. Replacement

You may wonder if repair is worth it or if replacement is smarter. Here are some things to consider:

• Age of the disposal – Most last 8 to 15 years. If yours is older, replacing it may be better.
• Frequency of breakdowns – If you call a plumbing service often, it may cost more to keep repairing.
• Extent of damage – Minor clogs can be fixed. Burned-out motors usually mean it is time for a new unit.
• Efficiency upgrades – Newer disposals are quieter, stronger, and more energy efficient.

A professional, like those at High Speed Plumbing, can help weigh these factors so you make the right call.

Preventing Future Problems

Once you get your disposal working again or install a new one, prevention is key. Simple habits can help keep things running smoothly:

• Only grind small food scraps, never bones or fruit pits
• Run cold water before, during, and after use.
• Avoid putting pasta, rice, or starchy foods into the drain.
• Clean it regularly with ice and vinegar.
• Call a plumber for maintenance if you notice changes in performance.

These small steps can extend the life of your disposal and reduce the need for another costly repair.

Take Action on Your Kitchen Today

A broken disposal can feel like a disaster, but it does not have to be. From quick resets to full garbage disposal replacement, you have options. And with the right habits, you can keep your disposal in good shape for years to come.

If your disposal is giving you trouble and the quick fixes are not doing the job, now is the time to call in a professional. A trusted plumber can quickly identify whether repair or full garbage disposal replacement is the right choice. By working with a reliable plumbing service, you can avoid ongoing frustration and protect your kitchen from leaks, clogs, and costly water damage. Many homeowners turn to High Speed Plumbing for dependable help that gets their kitchen back on track fast. Do not wait until your sink is completely out of action—schedule an inspection and get your disposal working smoothly again.